Theatre & Dance Department to Present ‘Spike Heels’ May 7-16

Cal Poly’s Theatre & Dance Department will present “Spike Heels” at 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, May 7-9 and 14-16, in the Spanos Theatre on campus. 

A contemporary spin on George Bernard Shaw’s “Pygmalion,” Theresa Rebeck’s serio-comic “Spike Heels” explores the complexities of relationships and power dynamics of the characters: Georgie, Andrew, Edward and Lydia. 

Andrew has taken on Georgie as a “pupil” of sorts, lecturing her about language, introducing her to culture, and securing her a job in his best friend Edward’s firm.  Georgie and Andrew’s relationship disrupts his engagement to Lydia, while Edward’s treatment of Georgie exposes much about Andrew’s intentions. The characters surprise themselves and each other as vulnerabilities, passions, emotions and lust push them each to their breaking points.

“What draws me to this play is that it investigates the ways we relate to each other, both the good and the bad,” said Heidi Nees, a Theatre professor who is directing the play. “These are characters who make mistakes, say things they wish they hadn’t, make discoveries about themselves and each other, and seek balance within themselves and in their relationships.   

“My hope is that this production will encourage audiences to reflect upon their own relationships.”  

Though Rebeck has been writing for the stage for more than 25 years, audiences may be more familiar with her recent work on the NBC television series “Smash.” “I appreciate the ways in which Rebeck can simultaneously explore relationships through individualized characters and make larger social commentary through her particular blend of sarcastic comedy and drama,” Nees said.  

“Spike Heels” features the work of Theatre & Dance Department faculty and staff members: Thomas J. Bernard (costume design), Sarah Bryan (costume shop supervision), Pegi Marshall-Amundsen (set and lighting design) and Clint Bryson (technical direction). Approximately 30 students from a variety of majors contributed to the production through construction, backstage work, management and performance.

Tickets are $20 for the public and $12 for students, Cal Poly faculty/staff and seniors. Parking is included in the ticket price. Because of strong language and adult subjects, this performance is not recommended for young audiences.  

Tickets are available through the Cal Poly Ticket Office between noon and 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. To order by phone, call 805-SLO-4TIX (805-756-4849).  

The performance is sponsored by Cal Poly’s Theatre & Dance Department, the College of Liberal Arts and the Instructionally Related Activities Program.